Mount’s Role in United’s Ambitions Under Amorim
Erik ten Hag advocated for Manchester United’s acquisition of Mason Mount from Chelsea in July 2023, believing wholeheartedly in the midfielder’s potential within his tactical vision. Ten Hag remains convinced that Mount’s absence during their collaborative time at Old Trafford contributed significantly to his eventual departure from the club.
In the nearly fifteen months under Ten Hag, Mount managed to feature in only seven Premier League matches. The former manager holds onto the belief that outcomes could have differed had Mount been available more frequently.
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Recently returning to the lineup, Mount continues to face injury concerns since Ruben Amorim’s appointment, echoing the challenges Ten Hag faced. Amorim is tasked with maximizing Mount’s contributions while simultaneously minimizing the chances of further injuries. After netting his first goal of the season against Sunderland, a milestone for him at Old Trafford, Mount was substituted in the 66th minute to preserve him for future matches.
Despite performing well, the decision to limit his playing time had been pre-established to keep him on the field for no longer than an hour.
Amorim remarked post-match, “He did really well. We have to manage his return from injury carefully.”
With a challenging match against Liverpool approaching after the international break, Amorim deemed it more prudent to conserve Mount’s energy. This match marks the beginning of a demanding four-game stretch that will include encounters with Brighton & Hove Albion, Nottingham Forest, and Tottenham Hotspur, crucial fixtures that could dictate Amorim’s continued position as head coach through the holiday season.
Upon arriving at Manchester to take over from Ten Hag in November 2024, Mount was one of the first players Amorim encountered at Carrington. During another recovery phase, he was diligently training while many teammates were on holiday or representing their nations. This dedication has impressed Amorim.
Amorim has sought to reshape the team’s dynamics, removing perceived negative influences, including players like Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho. In contrast, Mount stands out as a model of the attributes Amorim desires in his squad. Even while sidelined, he has consistently participated in team meetings to ensure a smooth reintegration into the lineup.
At 26, Mount often remains the last player at Carrington, undergoing ice baths and sauna sessions to maintain fitness. He chose to spend his international break with family and on the golf course rather than traveling.
Furthermore, Mount has taken it upon himself to assist teammates in grasping Amorim’s tactical approach, drawing on his experiences with similar formations under Thomas Tuchel at Chelsea.
“I have played in a formation similar to what [Amorim] prefers,” Mount stated after finding the net against Sunderland. “Familiarity with the roles and what he expects from the team aligns with my past experiences.”
Mount was granted a starting position against Sunderland instead of summer signing Matheus Cunha, despite the latter’s impressive performances this season. Cunha’s strengths lie in attacking, whereas Mount brings a different dimension to the midfield.
By including both Cunha and another summer acquisition, Bryan Mbeumo, United bolsters its attacking options. Mount’s expertise in pressing and positional awareness is crucial for supporting Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro when the team faces midfield intensity.
“Mason Mount provides us with a midfielder’s attributes more than those of a winger or a forward,” recognized Amorim after the match against Sunderland. “His defensive skills and football intelligence are invaluable, and these qualities will be essential depending on our opponent’s tactics.”
As United prepares to face Liverpool this weekend, Mount’s contribution will be vital, similar to his rapid goal against Sunderland, which came early in the match. A strong showing at Anfield could reaffirm his position in England’s national setup ahead of the upcoming World Cup, as discussed during a conversation with Tuchel after Mount’s performance against Arsenal.
While Ten Hag may regret missing out on Mount’s capabilities, the midfielder is beginning to demonstrate his significance to Amorim’s vision for the club.
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